Protecting your noggin on your daily commute doesn’t mean you have to look like a go-go-go racer. Here, we highlight a few options that are as stylish as they are safe and functional.
174Hudson is the accessories label of bike and ebike brand Priority Bicycles, which developed the Stack foldable helmet in collaboration with Closca Design. The helmet features a collapsible top that folds into the base to reduce volume by nearly 50 percent, making it a great riding accessory on the go and packing easily into a backpack, briefcase, or tote. It’s also a compact option for bike or electric scooter share riders.
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The Stack is CPSC certified in the US and EN1078 certified in the EU, and weighs just 330 grams. Additional features include an adjustable elastic strap and hidden airflow openings for venting. The helmet comes in medium (head circumference of 56 to 59 centimeters), and large (60 to 63 centimeters) sizes.
MSRP: $79.99. More information: prioritybicycles.com.
Designed for urban use, Abus’ Pedelec 2.0 helmet features 360-degree visibility with bright retroreflectors as well as an integrated rear LED rechargeable light. The flashing red triangle LED is one of the largest helmet-mounted lights on the market.
The Pedelec 2.0 is also rain-ready, with an integrated rear port housing a rain cover that can be quickly deployed. The rear mount is fixed in the port and the cover hooks into place on the front, covering the helmet vents for wet or use in cold weather. The cover includes the same reflectors as the shell, and splits around the LED light so it is not obscured.
Rounding out the package are a Fidlock magnetic buckle for one-handed operation, ponytail compatibility for long hair, and full-coverage shell to keep the helmet protected from the minor dings associated with city use. The Pedelec 2.0 is available in small/medium and large/extra large sizes.
MSRP: $149.99. More information: abus.com.
Designed for urban city riding, the minimalist Heritage bike helmets are Thousand’s original collection, inspired by vintage moto lids and the colorways of the 1950s and ’60s. Beyond their good looks, the helmets are also safety certified to CPSC, ASTM 1492, and CE EN1078 standards.
Features include the PopLock—a plug in the side of the helmet that pops out to lock the Heritage to the bike. Under its Anti-Theft Guarantee, Thousand will replace your helmet if it’s ever stolen while locked to your bike.
The helmet’s Dial Fit System easily adjusts for a snug and comfortable fit, and the magnetic buckle can be fastened with one hand to secure the vegan leather helmet straps. Seven air vents and three interior cooling channels provide airflow to prevent overheating.
The Heritage Collection comes in seven colorways, including Speedway Creme, Carbon Black, and Willowbrook Mint (pictured at top).
MSRP: $89. More information: explorethousand.com.
